Activation Calculations of the Moderator for the Low Energy Neutron Source

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Abstract

The Low Energy Neutron Source (LENS) at the Indiana University Cyclotron Facility
(IUCF) will accelerate protons in the range of 7 to 22 MeV. The protons are incident on
a beryllium target via the (p,n) reaction, where the majority of the neutrons continue
in the forward direction. The neutrons are then moderated in solid methane, reaching
energy levels of 4 meV or lower. It is the activation levels of the moderator and related
containers and hardware materials that are of particular concern. The calculations that
follow are designed to estimate the biological safety and activation of materials in the
vicinity of the moderator.